There is NOTHING without bias, as long as the human element exists.  Calm down, people who are taking this way too personally!

The irony of judgment for those that do reviews for a living.  The person someone is so confident is a shill is not as biased as people think.  The person that you love that ‘tells it like it is’, is more biased/flawed than you realize.  These are the closest two ways to reach a SOMEWHAT unbiased opinion on a product.  The first is critical thinking through multiple sources, preferably individuals with different approaches.  The second is ultimately, finding out for yourself.  Both options are still imperfect.

Here is a defense of professional and very profitable product reviewers.  What quality review are you REALLY (?) consistently getting for free, aka the goodness out of their hearts?  Can they afford the time and resources since it is not there primary source of income to give you real feedback.  Most is halfhearted feedback that ‘this is great or terrible,’ before going back to what they do for a living.  Authenticity alone is not necessarily a path to accuracy.

What about those people calling out products, aren’t they real?  People doing the ‘this is all overpriced, not good’ and are habitually negative are LITERALLY AT LEAST THE OTHER SIDE OF THE COIN.  But from experience I am actually more skeptical of these individuals.  They historically played on the ego of the too smart to fall for a shill crowd!  The irony.  I cannot tell you how many times I am the least surprised they have been on the verge of coming out with their own product line.  Though I am not judging what they are selling.  But it is curious how convenient the overzealous criticisms are often magically solved only with their products.

This is not a popular opinion but a reasonable assessment.  Maybe not great, but most products are at least solid.  Most products I can speak positively about and be authentic about it.  Most issues people have with products, as in service, are either and or also inflated expectations and not taking instructions seriously.  “Why does he praise so many products on YouTube?”  Because if you mess any of them up it is likely your fault.  This is coming from someone who reviews products.  10 years ago, even poor-quality products by 2026 standards, many people would find great.  20 years ago, they would be beyond our imagination.

This is what people miss out on this process.  Two buckets and two grit guards, one for each bucket.  But also, it is important to SCRUB your mitt thoroughly on the grit guard (ideally both buckets) and give the mitt a moment in the wash bucket for the dirt to settle down.

A good wash mitt is not optional.  This is the Gyeon Smoothie V2 (EVO)

Be frequently mindful of what is on your mitt before use and while washing your car.

This is a reminder of the importance of a soft wash mitt.  This versatile wash mitt can work with traditional and rinseless wash scenarios.  But it is also a reminder of the importance of proper storage.  Microfiber picks up foreign debris, that includes dust that accumulates in open and even enclosed spaces.  Even in storage containers, I place my microfiber in plastic sealable bags.  Packing a microfiber towel in Ziploc bags are one option.  But there are very good economical multiple size options on Amazon.

Foaming a car is not necessarily the be all end all of prewashing.  I will say if you are using a pressure washer (i.e. high pressure) definitely lather the paint with foam prior to rinsing.  A hose is not that much of a concern, with the caveat of the whole point of doing what is appropriate to pre rinse the car.  More times than not on a reasonably maintained car a thorough rinse with a garden hose will set you up for a safer wash process.

Most people focus too much on speed and efficiency.  I get urgency in some cases.  But there is no scenario where rushing is a better plan, even if you are concerned about water-spots.  Pick a better time to wash your car or use the NUMEROUS quick detailers and water-spot removers as an extra step.  Some of those quick detailer (drying aid) products are formulated for just that reason.  If you care about swirls, then why are you acting like a cheap detailer or the car wash, rushing from car to car?

This is not necessarily an advertisement for Scangrip.  Get the best value you can afford for your needs.  It does not matter to me what resources that you utilize.  The point is to put effort into what you deem a quality set of products for your budget.  I do think Scangrip is a solid option if you are not sure what brand of lights to purchase.  Although I use Scangrip primarily, I have one criticism, which has been all too common amongst companies, who pride themselves on innovation.  I owned one of their original Scangrip models.  The very unique battery charger failed due to degradation of wire connection.  There was no replacement part available, as they moved on to newer models.  I do wish companies would put themselves in a position to better take care of consumers in that respect, especially for parts that realistically will need replacement.

Taking advantage of professional lighting is important with respect to us performing our detailing tasks, but also the convenience of saving time. Understanding color temperature and having a light that can provide those options, is important when you are concerned about locating microscopic defects on different colored cars.  Diffusion options are important for two main reasons (although there are other benefits).  Diffused light shows ceramic coating high spots more easily oftentimes.  But it can also help you spot a deeper defect, when your eyes are distracted by swirls.

If you are in the process of finding or building a brick and mortar shop, how will the lighting be set up?  What kind of lights?  What location will they be with respect to the building and particularly where vehicles will be worked on?  Will they conflict or compliment other lighting used?  Film lighting, which can be Scangrip or a separate collection of LED lighting, is important for content creation.

Speaking of film lighting and detailing lighting, understanding the importance of taking light away will make you better at your craft.  It will make you a better detailer, it will make your content more aesthetically pleasing, and it will allow your audience to better understand what is going on.

I have been doing this (running a small business) long enough to know that 90% of the things said by people, including other detailers on the internet, reveal they do not know how business works. I can mention this with confidence with the awareness that knowledgeable people do not arbitrarily proclaim expertise over the day to day decisions of strangers without specific data and rapport.

I mean at the fundamental level.  Our circle, including family, is out of touch, I also believe both for different reasons, detailing business owners and customers, are disingenuous.  That does not mean constructive feedback is not often avoided.

A Tale Of Two Detailers – Two Mindsets Attracting Two Different Kinds Of Customers

In a world of bullying and specifically bullying amongst fellow detailers, I genuinely did not foresee myself writing about this particular subject.  There is hateful rhetoric posted on detailers social media pages about charging higher prices OR lower prices than another detailer, who is not even their competitor.  You would think undercutting would trigger animus to this degree and that attacks over cheap pricing would be my inspiration for this article.  No!  Other detailers virtue signaling for consumers, who likely can barely afford to stay in business, probably do not offer the same experience, and do not add the same value to their employees or government in legitimacy as other professionals.  You would also think cheap customers being lured by cheap prices would evoke the age-old rhetoric of a luxury operator, ‘not my customer!’  But many of these detailers seemed obsessed to fight over the business of people who do not appreciate them or services they provide.

People are mad over an Instagram post, that if they feel as strongly about, can make their own content boasting how ‘reasonably priced they are.’

To the customer or business owner, assuming there is transparency and that we are consenting adults, I have never been motivated to count another adult’s money.  Yet many seem proud to do this.  Why is this?

At some point I believe many detailing business owners accept in their mind they could only command a certain rate.  Instead of challenging that limiting belief or choosing to DO SOMETHING ELSE with their life, they rationalized their pricing handicap.  Part of their justification is shaming other detailers.  They need others to be small to feel better, essentially to hide their own shortcomings.

Dealing With Noise

Leaning on being open to all information, I have personally struggled to discern between positive and negative information at times.  Something that resonates with me, is letting go.  Letting go what does not serve me.  For you that could mean distracting information you are fighting due to insecurity, or standing up for yourself due to insecurity.  Let go what does not serve you!

Mike Phillips “use what you like and use them often.”  I often turn back to that quote to keep me disciplined from expanding my collection beyond what is necessary.  Easier said than done with a platform giving me opportunities to test products.  A client also told me that “you are well equipped.”  I like to have an answer for any adversity I face.  But remembering the previous quote, there is a dark side to chasing so many different products.

Polishes and protection products are the ones most often that pique our curiosity.  They are also the products that have subtle and overt differences in ideal application or usage and also perform differently.  At a basic level, I know not everyone has the discipline to read and follow the instructions every time.  That is where you can get in trouble, using a product that needs to be worked differently for optimal success.

When I read and watch complaints or see negative feedback about polish performance or product removal, I have these thoughts that center around a single concept, that comes to mind.  How much time has the user worked with a particular polish or compound?  Did they judge the product without evaluating it with different pad types, working environments, or even polishers?  The big one; are they accustomed to a particular working time?  In short, are they playing around with a bunch of different polishes to the point that their time is limited learning about one.  Even polishes that I prefer, or ones that I do not, performed better with experience.

A variety of products provides options and a great answer in all situations, which means consistently good results.  It can also lead to disorganization, poor cost effectiveness, inefficiency in work, and more importantly a lesser likelihood of understanding and mastering products in the short run and in a variety of settings in the long run.

Perhaps you are asking, “what am I doing wrong?”  Are you pampering your paint?  Literally, being gentle and caring!

You hear all of the advice.  You get all of the instructions.  What has not been working according to your detailer has been brought to your attention.  But you do 6 or 7 out of 10 recommendations or do not take the key recommendations seriously.  The swirls immediately coming back after the first wash is the consequence.

One of the biggest misses is not using a grit guard.

The elephant in the room is not taking the suggestions seriously like the importance of grit guards or a second bucket, while spending twice a year polishing swirl marks.  Perhaps the paint is not as bad as before.  But perhaps what may take 2 or 3 years to accumulate, you are unnecessarily fixing this damage still twice a year.

Rushing to get around a problem (like the sun), consequentially creating a bigger problem.  There are water spot removers of various strengths.  Some formulations work as Quick Detailer and drying aids.  Rushing and car care do not go well together.

Not washing the wash mitt.  I often see microfiber towels get pampered, yet the mitt gets hung up somewhere in a garage.  Yes, you have an advantage of it being introduced to soapy water.  But why take it for granted that you are self cleaning a mitt through a wash process or neglect the fact that from the last use to the next time you grab a mitt something doesn’t embed itself in your wash media?

Also, you need to use a good quality mitt, unlike most found in typical big box and auto parts stores.  Take care of the mitt.  Preserving means washing and drying your mitt properly.  The same goes for all towels.

In general, many people go back to square one because they halfheartedly perform most of the suggestions.  Near perfect paint is more challenging and understandably not always sustainable in the very long run.  But getting very close to perfection can happen if you consistently take ALL of the suggestions seriously.  Most people who even claim to pamper their cars do not even do the former, which is not that difficult.  The latter is a little more challenging, but many people have embraced this mindset into habit.

You may have heard the term pamper paint?  We are not kidding!  If your mindset shifted to treating your paint like a baby’s skin, the way you approach car detailing and washing might change dramatically.  This shift would most likely be in your execution of the suggestions already stated, perhaps long before reading this article.

The inquiries for paid advertising services were some of the most unprofessional experiences I have ever had from a commonly recognizable company (that I won’t name).  The first time they reached out to me, I asked other detailing business owners for opinions and experiences.  I was given a universal negative assessment of their platform by my peers.  After months of repeated efforts insisting I was not interested in their paid services, they stopped calling me.  For the time being!  About a week or so after that initial final call, all but one of my REAL reviews was REMOVED.  Other detailing business owners shared the same experience with the same company.

Spam

Facebook bots or scams have become a serious problem over the years.  Many very successful higher volume shops have become so saturated with spam reviews on this platform, that it has drowned out the thoughtful feedback from actual customers.

What (Who) Is Commonly Referred To As A Karen

I am not just referring to expectations, but I will begin with certain assumptions.  I have read numerous 1 Star reviews expressing displeasure in the performance of a ceramic coating or condition of the vehicle.  The most common being water spots and swirls appearing.  I am not suggesting it was not possible there were no steps that needed to be taken to fool proof the expectations prior to booking or that it would be my preferred coating.  But knowing the coating brand and approach, I was aware that documentation was provided to customers in addition to accessible information that communicated that customers would experience those specific consequences for improper car maintenance.  In other words, accountability goes both ways.

I have read 1 Star reviews from people subtlety acknowledging they have done the complete opposite of what the aftercare recommendation is.  Imagine what is not told with these 1 Star reviews.  That does not mean even in those cases, business owners often should do better in communicating expectations.  But I am one of those people who willingly deals with angry individuals do to the fact that I have questions about specifics versus guessing a price for a generic term (detailing or ceramic).  There is a lot of misinformation from suppliers of products that businesses face the burden of managing.

Reviews Are Still Important

Reading reviews and responses are still important.  Perhaps READING with intention is more important than ever.  What is also important is having an open mind.  It is commonly frowned upon in sales to discourage an immediate transaction, I often encourage hesitation.  The experience in the long run is more important to me.  I do not want you to be scared to ever book.  I just want you to be patient and let go of potential assumptions.

White

It shows the general dirt and grime that we are familiar with on cars more easily.  But it also shows some of the bonded contamination that is invisible to most people, particularly rust blooms.

Black

Not only scratches, but somewhat minor scratches (swirls) are more visible. These swirls are generally a product of how not so carefully you wash and dry your car.  Often many people who think they take very good care of their car are confused and ultimately perhaps humbled by owning a black car for this reason.

Red

Oxidation issues are more noticeable with this color.  The car may have a subtle pinkish hue.

Silver And Grey

These are some of the more forgiving colors with respect to seeing the issues that are often with ALL CARS at some point.

The Spectrum Of Problems Are Not Unique To One Color.

Each of these cars has the same issues, but due to color you will not recognize the same damage, degradation, and contamination as easily.  It is important (often understated) that although it will not be as dramatic, it will still subtlety take away the aesthetic appearance of every color car.  The average non detailing savvy person just may not be able to UNDERSTAND recognize why their paint does not look as good (i.e.pop) as they like.

I talked to someone who got his car clay and waxed by other detailers, that told me the paint just doesn’t pop (video of car below).  He said he could not understand why.  It was even a black car.  Yet he said he could barely see swirls.  So he had a hard time understanding that was the problem.  It was! Whenever you have a high volume of peaks and valleys, the visual clarity of an image is going to take a hit.  I do not mean to take the romanticism away from why we do paint correction.  But this scientific description is the reason for its value.  I have learned that most professionals do not even know this and it is a major reason why many people who are looking for a higher level service is often (not necessarily disappointed) but more often underwhelmed.

Source: YouTube

When it comes to dialing in the final look of a vehicle, tires and trim can make or break the overall appearance. Gtechniq T1 Durable Tyre Gel is one of those products that goes beyond a simple dressing, it enhances, restores, and protects in a way that holds up over time. Below, I will walk through how I apply it and why it has become a highly reached for product for so much more than tires.

Cleaning is Important

The foundation of any good result with T1 starts with proper prep. Before applying, I make sure the surface is thoroughly cleaned, which is especially important for tires, which tend to hold onto old dressings and road grime more than some other exterior surfaces. Using a dedicated cleaner and a stiff brush, I scrub until the surface is completely clean and dry.

The same applies to any trim pieces you are working on. Clean, residue-free surfaces allow T1 to properly bond and perform the way it is designed to. Skipping this step might still give you some visual improvement, but it won’t last and longevity is where this product really shines.

Ease of Application

Application is simple and controlled. I use a foam or microfiber applicator pad and work a small amount of T1 evenly across the surface. Now T1 is not a paste, it is in liquid form, so use as little as possible and let it soak into the applicator pad a bit before you move to the surface.

On tires, you can tailor the finish depending on how much you apply, one light coat gives you a clean, satin look, while additional layers can increase depth slightly without ever becoming overly greasy.

For trim and plastics, I keep it to a thin, even coat, single coat. Work T1 into textured areas (plastic and rubber) to ensure full coverage. After a few minutes, I will lightly level any excess if needed, leaving behind a uniform, dry to the touch finish.

Versatility at It’s Best

Where T1 really stands out is its versatility. While it is labeled as a tire gel, it performs exceptionally well on a variety of exterior surfaces. Textured plastics, trim pieces, rubber moldings, bumpers, grilles, mirror housings, door handles, and mud flaps all respond incredibly well to it. It also works great in the engine bay on plastic covers and rubber components, restoring that deep, OEM look without leaving things overly glossy or greasy. The 50/50 shots below highlight just how effectively it brings faded materials back to life!

Beyond appearance, durability is what sets this product apart. Now keep that in line with an easy to apply dressing, not a trim coating. T1 is not a short term dressing that disappears after the first rain, you will get a solid month out of your application in most cases.

Once applied to a properly prepped surface, it holds up through multiple washes and exposure to the elements. Throughout this time it will maintain a nice satin sheen and I have seen a great deal of contamination repelling. These areas do not attract dust and cleaning throughout the weeks it is on the surface is much easier.

Conclusion

If you are looking for a product that is easy to apply and does more than just add shine, Gtechniq T1 Durable Tyre Gel is an easy recommendation. With the right prep and application, it delivers consistent results and helps you save valuable time by allowing you to not only apply to your tires, but also other exterior trim surfaces.

One of the most respected names in the industry, who I will not mention, changed his preferred ceramic coating.  He lost followers in the industry and received hateful private messages.  All of this hate was due to him making a personal business decision, that did directly affect anyone but himself and his clients.

Empathy to understand a small business owner is currency rare as a jewel.

If someone was to ask, after the fact, how many small business owners had challenges in their relationships, dealt with depression, and lost people they saw as friends, I believe what is obvious to me would shock most of the population.  It is not just about the alleged friend that wants and is shocked you cannot do free work or give a significant discount.  It is that person that cannot see behind the $1,800 invoice and see $700 coming back to you, while believing you are a bad person for not charging $900 or less to go above and beyond.  Often running a business is a cruel way to see that really you do not have as many REAL friends as you realize.

Another reality we have to acknowledge is time and energy spent that a regular employee who works from 9am to 5pm may not.  It is a double edge sword, that we can not always account for.  It takes a lot out of us, what we invest of ourselves for the success of a business.  Sometimes that means more personal time sacrificed for the greater good of growing a business.  There is a line to cross where this becomes unhealthy.  But even being reasonable to yourself, there will be times you will be invested in your business especially with unforeseen emergencies that hold our attention.  Not everybody in the outside world is going to be understanding.

And then there is the general perception of those in the Detailing industry.  I remember there was a lady I had not heard from a long time.  She seemed happy to hear from me.  I told her I started a business.  Excited she asked, “what did I do?”  I did not hear from this person since.

I have been given the ‘cold shoulder’ as well by people in the industry, whom I wanted to thank and show appreciation for.  Having a great sense of self means knowing that deep down, whether good or bad, that rejection is about them.  I suspect many of those same distant people are guarded in their own feeling of isolation, perhaps just like myself (or you).  I also remind myself how often I can be guilty of losing track of all of the times people in the industry have been very complimentary towards me.  How often do you think about the times people have told you, that you have made an impact on their life?  You should think about it more, because you matter!

This article was written for a few reasons.  For one, I thought this might be ‘too much’.  Too uncomfortable and too provocative!  I was motivated to create this for that same reason.  Sometimes people are mostly a fairy-tale about running a business which is not reality, even if it is worth it.  For those that are willing to take on the challenge, I want you to be prepared.  But I also wrote this article to remind all of the small business owners that they are not alone.  Even though it feels like it sometimes!

Product Recommendations From The Video

• Detailer 5 Gallon Bucket & Grit Guard Kit
• Rag Company Cyclone Wash Mitt
• Eagle Edgeless 500GSM Microfiber Towels
• Gyeon Bug And Grime
• Gyeon Waterspot

Product Recommendations From The Video:

• Elcometer Paint Meter
• Rupes BigFoot Random Orbital Polisher – LHR 12E Duetto
• Rupes iBrid Mini HLR75 Polisher

You only want to do paint correction.  You only want to perform ceramic coating services.  You want to stick with basic detailing services.  You want to do just car washes.  You want to eliminate interior detailing.  You just want to clean interiors.  Shall I continue?   You wish you could charge more.  There is a reason why I do not use the word JOB to describe what I do.  Unless a W2 with someone else’s business name appears during tax time, I am certain that I am self-employed.

I see a plethora of social media stories earmarking successes, that is outlining services and clients that business owners work with.  It is often a price mentioned for services provided or clients who are easy to work with.  But there are also content creators mentioning the opposite.  But the former mentioning that they charge a premium providing specified services to a happy client.  This often elicits a similar response by at least one business owner.  They will often say, “I wish I could (but my excuse).”  Statements like ‘I wish I could charge this much’ or ‘find those clients’ are common.

You know you are your own boss.  You have to accept consequences, just like you are dealing with struggling to survive with significantly cheaper prices than what I charge even several years prior.  Yes, there is a market and other variables.  But the market excuse commonly levied, is taken to the extreme.  I often cite people in their area often charging twice as much, occasionally more for advertised services.  Often, they find the lowest of low to compare their business.  In finding the opposite success stories, I noticed professional effort.  That means a website, a real logo, nice attire, and other indicators of a luxury operation.

But maybe that is the proverbial elephant in the room.  Maybe they don’t want to invest in better clothing than a old yellow stained white tank top.  Maybe they cannot be bothered with talking on camera or cleaning their shop regularly.  Maybe they like catering to people who do not appreciate them or vehicle incredibly uncomfortable around people with disposable income.

I will often check out their social media profiles to find a commonality.  On some level their actions attract cheap people with unrealistic expectations who also treat them like low wage employees who should be grateful for a job, versus business owners.  Do you carry yourself like a homeless person pushing a shopping cart trying to find a job/gig for some money outside of a McDonald’s.  What kind of customers are you going to (or not going to) attract?!

Leadership and Mindset

“Hey, we are hiring this detailer to do what we want, and this is the wage you are going to get.  If you don’t like it or don’t want to work, well find another detailer who wants a job, that will do as instructed and work hard for me!  Don’t try to scam me out of more money either!”  Offensive?  These are similar phrases taken from job applications.  I imagine there are people who would make good employees, that read this and decide this is not the employer for them.

You say you hate interiors!  Why are you doing something you so passionately hate.  Some say they don’t do it.  Although that is my point, I ask why would you be so proud to not do it!  On this surface, I may start to appear hypocritical.  But let’s dig a little deeper.

I am not saying you should or should not, as long you embrace the positive and negative consequences of either decision.  But similar to justifying cheap pricing, I do not think that is often the real issue.  I believe many detailers turn issues with services they do not like into a self-fulfilling prophecy.  They do not treat it like their other detailing services.  Not marketed as glamorously or even as professionally, not sold as a detailing service, and most importantly not priced in a way that commands respect.  Think about it, if I did a two-stage correction and difficult coating for $600, AND OF COURSE ATTRACTING THAT KIND OF UNAPPRECIATIVE CROWD, I would hate correction and coatings too!

Other people touching your car in general is an issue.  We learn that people can be blatantly inconsiderate or lack empathy.  There is another concern, even more significant, because that is where we often drop our guard.  Businesses whose staff and ownership fall in that same category.  I would advise against or at least be cautious about using valet services.

I see frequent disasters that are the possible consequence of someone taking bad advice from people who range from not caring at all to only moderately caring.  Numerous times on social media someone suggested for bug or paint transfer removal something that would likely lead to the following (below) damage.  Gather information from more reliable sources.  This website is a trustworthy site, though there are others.

Dealerships services, if you can avoid them and find a high-end small business automotive shop instead, that often is to your advantage.   The signs (Do Not Wash) are essential.   Many people know of this.  But many people do not realize a written and verbal reminder are essential, for every trip!  Not an excuse for the dealership but an explanation to protect you; they do not understand nor are they accustomed to our world.

Even better, having this mirror hang tag in addition to another reminder on the dashboard or location that cannot be overlooked.  Written instructions are often followed by a verbal reminder, at the dealership.

For those that have high level coating expectations and other expectations, if you do the bare minimum or ignore recommended advice out of arrogance, the disappointment in the end products are on you.  I see many people post on social media about failed expectations or saying a bottle is scamming them.  From my observation, often steps deemed unnecessary were skipped and a conscious decision was made to entertain grandiose claims about ceramic coatings.  In 2025 and beyond there are numerous groups providing misleading information to sell products and services to willfully misinformed consumers.  There are also numerous reputable resources that can align your expectations to a more realistic domain.

Start with your coating purchase from a reputable source.  That is a bare minimum starting point.  Detailed Image is obviously one resource that will sell decent products.  For obvious reasons, I am not going to get into naming all reputable suppliers.  But utilize some critical thinking.  I have bought many items off of one of those most popular online ordering sites.  They obviously carry unverified and questionable products.  Ofcourse not all products supplied by Detailed Image or reputable detailing suppliers may be one of the best or ones I strongly prefer, but at least we can realistically get to the reputable bare minimum threshold.

Let me help you out with a clue.  The bottles that I use to professionally ceramic coat cars in 2025, cost $180, $250, and $325.  I am not suggesting you should be as discerning as I am.  But if you see a (perfume looking) bottle for $25 online or even a perhaps recognizable name offering 10 years for $100, I advise against it.

Polishing is not only for removing visible paint defects that you see with led lighting.  Older cars, although not visible, have some oxidation that will compromise the bond of a coating in the long run.  The plot thickens though.  If you clay a car, realistically some marring will occur.  That may or may not be an issue to you.  But what most people do not know is the wax in a ‘clay and wax’ service may temporarily fill the microscopic damage done by claying.  This is a reason why many people do not understand the consequences of not polishing after clay bar use.  If carefully done on a relatively well-maintained car it may not be an issue or barely noticeable.  But unlike wax, ceramic coating chemistry is similar to glass.  You are magnifying/intensifying what is there, good or bad.  Think about that!

I am going to say something most have not.  I believe the lock in the paint, phobia producing rhetoric, is a tool (not created by detailers) but ceramic coating companies to manipulate consumers and detailers.  ‘Look at how good the coating looks.’  In reality, the detailing (including polishing) is the primary difference.  For what is worth, I was known for doing paint correction services, well before I offered ceramic coatings.  I have a coating on my car currently.  Well before that I did not need a ceramic coating to care how my paint looked.  After offering coatings, I was responsible as a business owner with how much polishing I performed, even if you still saw scratches.  Imagine that!

The answer to the question of using an all in one type polish like HD Speed on a vehicle you are using a ceramic coating is, No!  Even if you perform the necessary steps which would be more time and money, you increase the chances of leaving something on the paint.  Hypothetically you buy a high-performance sports car.  You use the same tires purchased for an economy car.  You pass on a few oil changes, because you got away with it on the economy car with minimum issues.  We would never do that.  Then why are you debating purchasing a dedicated polish?!  If it is about the results (wax fills) that you are comfortable with, that is a polishing skill level issue.

Meguiar’s microfiber pads have long been a staple in the detailing world, so when the Ultra Universal Microfiber Pad was introduced, expectations were understandably high. This pad represents an evolution of the popular Microfiber Cutting and Finishing Discs, aiming to simplify the system into a single, more versatile solution.

At first glance, the construction immediately feels familiar. The ultra plush microfiber face and overall build quality are exactly what we have come to expect from Meguiar’s … consistent, well made, and clearly designed with durability in mind. Where things change is beneath the microfiber, with an all new, uniquely dense foam layer that plays a major role in how this pad performs.

Design Evolution

Meguiar’s summed up the intent behind this pad well when explaining the move away from separate cutting and finishing discs. The original microfiber system relied on multiple pads, thinner, firmer foam for cutting and thicker, softer foam for finishing. While effective, that system forced users to choose between cut focused or finish focused performance via two different pad options.

The Ultra Universal Microfiber Pad takes a different approach. The new foam is engineered to handle heavy cutting, finishing, and even interior cleaning, making this a true all-in-one option. From day one, it was designed to eliminate pad swapping and simplify workflows—especially appealing for detailers who value efficiency.

Performance

In testing, the Ultra Universal Microfiber Pad lands exactly where its name suggests, right in the middle. Compared to the older Microfiber Cutting Discs, you are not able to achieve the same level of outright correction. Previously, you could cut with the cutting disc, then refine with the finishing disc, each pad excelling at its specific task.

This new pad trades that specialization for versatility. It makes quick work of medium level imperfections and does so efficiently, but it struggles when pushed into heavier defect removal. That said, where it really shines is in how well it finishes down. The pad leaves behind a clean, refined surface and slides perfectly into a one step correction option.

Interior Cleaning

One of the most interesting additions is the pad’s ability to double as an interior cleaning tool. The microfiber face and foam backing work well on interior surfaces, making it easy to clean leather, vinyl, and plastics, something that was not a primary focus of the older cutting and finishing discs.

Final Thoughts

Overall, the Ultra Universal Microfiber Pad feels like a thoughtful evolution rather than a direct replacement to our beloved Microfiber Discs. The construction is excellent, the design is smart, and the versatility is undeniable. While it does not match the maximum correction potential of the older Microfiber Cutting Discs, it was not necessarily designed to. Instead, this pad excels as an all in one solution, capable of cutting, finishing, and even interior cleaning without the need for multiple pads. For detailers looking to streamline their setup and simplify pad selection, the Ultra Universal Microfiber Pad fits the bill nicely.

Having a healthy indifference to the opinion of others is very therapeutic and necessary for a small business owner.  Especially in a niche, that is not formally regulated with relatively lower barrier to entry!  Embracing the concept that you are not for everyone or even a majority of people is a great attribute for a detailing business owner.  I came to this conclusion very early on and it really helped me in sales, to the point it felt like I was not even selling a service.  I cared less about the perception of providing a luxury offering in an industry that the average consumer frowned upon.  I wanted to provide high quality experiences for high quality people.  Ironically as I became more unapologetic, I received less hate for my pricing and the hurdles I made new clients jump through.  People who did not fit, did not try.  My ideal avatar knew what they were getting before picking up the phone.  Not only saying but creating a business that communicated the phrase ‘we are not for everyone’ became as valuable as focusing on customer acquisition.

Being Accessible And Personable

Early on I was very subconscious about showing my face.  There was an insecurity about the perception of seeing me and buying what most consider a high-end brand.  I coupled that with being influenced by mainstream pressure to not ‘make it about me’, by people who had a different concept of what a detailing business can be.  I changed on both fronts.  It was a dramatic difference.  The opposite of what I feared came to fruition.  I was often greeted respectfully in person as Rodney (versus “hey how much do you guys charge for a detail”).

Encouraging My Clients To Be My Biggest Supporters

I wish I had pushed reviews harder earlier on.  Granted I do not by the nature of my operation attract as many buyers as a business that needs several vehicles in shop to consider it a good day.  A single car can keep me occupied for long hours for nearly a week.  With that said, there was also a insecurity early on about potentially receiving negative feedback.  That has changed over the years.  And although I will not have the volume of reviews based upon scaling for quality over volume, the quality of reviews has been greatly appreciated.

Finding Harmony Between Other People’s Philosophy And My Core Values

I learned and appreciated over time investing money and time, in being around successful business owners who are ahead of the curve.  With that said, I also learned the value of staying true to myself, even while listening to feedback from more successful and innovative business owners.  That can manifest itself in taking only select parts of the lessons that are applicable to my vision of my business.

Must Be Doing Something Right If I Am Getting Hate

Hate is going to exist within the industry from strangers and some of your competitors.  This industry can demonstrate a brotherhood, but it will often demonstrate a cutthroat nature.  I have experienced this with other detailers in my town, even when it is really not warranted.  But I have also seen this with representatives of ceramic coating brands.

Others (Including Friends) Lack Of Appreciation And Understanding Is a Personal Problem

Clients became closer to me than alleged friends.  If you ask someone who has done this business long enough, they will tell you about the people that claim to be your friends that are only interested in your business with a heavy discount and a excessive free work at their convenience.  There is a caveat to this reality all business owners will experience.  If we are honest with ourselves, what we do and the cost of that are not aligned with a majority of people.  I understood a need for grace in that respect.  I have clients whom I have bonded with more than people who allegedly proclaim to be friends with me for years.  Also, there is an awareness that I have that some people will go to another detailer as a compliment to me.  They are not willing to make that investment and or often also not THAT into their car.  Some of the most understanding and supportive people in my life are people who genuinely cannot budget most of my services and do not have cars they are very fond of.  Often a couple of conversations about what I do, services that numerous people proclaim to be overpriced, led to an immediate understanding of why I charge so much.  Many times they argue, it should cost more.  Logic is often not a factor in how you are treated.  I learned early on, how people perceive you as a detailing business owner is more important than what most people will tell you about running a business.  I learned quickly that rejecting people whose negative perception is set in stone, attracts people I want to align my business with.

The Junkman2000.

In terms of YouTube video content, this is the first person I watched with respect to paint correction.  Though I probably watched all of his detailing videos.  I also bet the Rag Company has him to thank for quite a number of microfiber sales.  I learned about the Rag Company, specifically the Eagle Edgeless microfiber towels at the time, from his channel.  His tutorial on paint correction also encouraged me to purchase the Porter Cable.  Not that protection products do not also influence visual cues, but his emphasis on polishing for looks is a great mindset for newer car detailing enthusiasts.

Higher-End Shops/Detailers Blog Write-Ups

I would find the most high-end shops and detailers doing private collections and study their detailed write ups.  This was how I often spent my recreation time.  Several hours a day!  It was obviously never the ‘look at how quickly we can knock these out’ write ups.  I would seek out the 30, 40, 65 hours to understand the details of the detailing.  But this ultimately gave me the most confidence in starting a business consistent with my vision.  It served as great validation that people would pay for and appreciate this kind of detailing.  It was especially important knowing that I would be bombarded with judgement and expectations by mainstream society that contradict what I consider professional detailing to be.

Mike Phillips

I was chosen to be on television for detailing.  When Mike Phillips called me, I did not fully accept that I was selected, it took an additional couple of seconds to really respond.  I had reached a point in which I was giving new detailing enthusiasts advice.  he noticed me.

Kevin Brown

Someone asked a question on a detailing forum and Kevin Brown made a contribution.  I asked a question, as I was about to do the first paint correction on a car besides my own.  Although I do not use the polishes and same type of abrasive technology, he gave me an incredibly detailed answer.  Since then I made a conscious effort to study his work on post and YouTube content.

I know what started as a personal about me quickly evolved into a celebration of those in this industry.  I have learned many of these people who are not only the pinnacle of detailing excellence, but they are great human beings.

After the winter months, our vehicles become very dirty and the warmer months are the perfect time to bring your exterior surfaces back to life. In this video, I highlighted some quick shots from my larger detail process, I started with a thorough cleaning to remove built-up grime and moved to a light polish that restores clarity and gloss. The goal here is not heavy correction, but a quick refresh to the finish.

I start with the Bilt Hamber Touch-less and the Koch Chemie Gentle Snow Foam with the IK e Foam Pro 2. The Touch-less allows me to remove a great deal of contamination without ever touching the paint. Just foam up with the e Foam Pro 2 unit, let it dwell onto the paint and rinse away. After this, I use the Gentle Snow Foam and perform a hand wash, working panel by panel (from top down). This helps remove any left over contamination, especially on high traffic areas like around wheel wells, lower door panels, etc. During this process I target the paint, glass and trim areas, moving to the wheels and tires after.

I had some Koch Chemie Magic Wheel Cleaner left, which made quick work of any light iron deposits and brake dust on the rim surface.

Once the surfaces were clean and dry, I moved into polishing. I already had a layer of EXO on the surface that was on its last legs, so the paint was already in good shape. I used the Liquid Elements Centriforce Polishing Pad and the Machine Polish Ultra Finish to perform a light polishing step to refresh the paint surface. The Gtechniq Panel Wipe was used to remove any polishing oils left on the surface and prep the area for the next step.

To lock everything in, I finish things off with Gtechniq CSL topped with EXO for that slick, high gloss look and long lasting protection. This was applied to all painted areas, the wheels, and any hard, plastic trim pieces. For any rubber, textured plastic tires, the Gtechniq T1 was my choice.

Overall this process was fairly easy, but simple in terms of the products used and steps needed to not only refresh the exterior, but leave it protected for the coming months. Below, you will find a full list of the products used, along with the video that shares some shots from this process.

Products Used:

• IK e Foam Pro 2
• Bilt Hamber Touch-Less
• Koch Chemie Gentle Snow Foam Xmas (Gfx)
• DIY Detail Cotton Candy Dream Wash Mitt
• The Rag Company The Liquid8r M22 Green
• Koch Chemie Magic Wheel Cleaner (Mwc)
• Griot’s Garage G9 Random Orbital Polisher
• Liquid Elements Centriforce Polishing Pad Green
• Liquid Elements Machine Polish Ultra Finish
• Gtechniq PW Panel Wipe
• Gtechniq EXO & Crystal Serum Light Box Kit
• Gtechniq MF1 ZeroR Microfibre Buff Cloth
• Gtechniq T1 Durable Tyre Gel
• Gtechniq G6 Perfect Glass

There are multiple reasons why I do not entertain every potential client.  One reason being that the cost of running a legitimate business that values providing a luxury experience is expensive.  But there is another more ever common reason why businesses like my own tend to not align with consumers who wonder why they never can find the right detailer.  Many consumers vent about us not giving a price immediately, when detailers are simply trying to manage expectations.  For those that push back on this statement, a reoccurring thought comes to mind.  I think of the irony of customers who complain about being scammed or receiving a poor-quality service from business who are quick to give a (nice) price and tell you what you want to hear.  But there is a distrust towards people for wanting to be transparent.  This paradox is all too common and customers.  If you have ever been disappointed with a detailing service or even products, how open were you to being informed?  Be honest with yourself.

Business owners too, I must speak to the elephant in the room.  More and more pressure is being placed on us to get customers in and out in the quickest way possible regardless of consequences to both parties.  I understand the demands of the way of the world.  My concern is for you to still have a plan to protect yourself, with respect to managed expectations and your reputation.  Adjusting to the future does not eliminate problems.  In some cases, it magnifies them.

UV Protection Or Environmental Damage

So many will ask about a wax or coating to eliminate all concern about UV degradation.  Realistically there is more to it.  From choosing a QUALITY coating with a QUALITY detailing service, to start.  That service should involve responsible paint correction.  That service should include a Quality sealant or coating, for its effective life.  The owner needs to (seriously) wash that car on a regular basis.  Ideally, parking in an enclosed shelter.  This is all part of the proverbial recipe.  It is not just a magic word or phrase, like ceramic or even PPF.

Unrealistic attributes, especially for what they paid for, is the root of disappointment.

I Am Proud To See Waterbeads Too, But Here Is The Problem

I genuinely suspect if I was to do a poll for the general population who have some interest in detailing, what is their sign of car protection, waterbeading would be the most common response.  I would not necessarily suggest the general population is entirely wrong.  But there is much more to seeing clues of paint protection present on a car than hydrophobic properties demonstrated.  I was in the process of detailing a Mustang and recalled droplets beading on the front edge of the car.  I had polished the car without (prior to) leaving anything behind.  It was naked paint.  I have also seen cars that have a ceramic coating present that are not demonstrating waterbeading.  In that case, the car just needed a deeper cleaning.  All of a sudden, the car showed clear signs it was ceramic coated.

For anyone interested in or even offering these services, do you understand the benefits and limitations of Paint Protection Film as well as ceramic coatings?  More importantly, do you know how to take advantage of the benefits?  Not necessarily just how you can profit off of the consequences of cosmetic issues, but I am referring to consumers understanding the experience of caring for their car.  I think there should be more meaningful conversations about the experience of having Paint Protection Film with and without a ceramic coating, or a paint sealant, or with nothing at all.